Statutory Minimum Wage
Starting May 1, 2025, the Statutory Minimum Wage (SMW) will increase to HK$42.1 per hour. On the same day, employers must keep records of total hours worked for employees earning less than HK$17,200 per month. https://www.labour.gov.hk/eng/faq/smw_keeping_record.htm
On April 30, 2024, the government approved the Minimum Wage Commission’s suggestions to improve the Statutory Minimum Wage (SMW) review process. This includes using a formula to review the SMW rate every year and checking how this new annual review system works 5 to 10 years after it starts. The next SMW rate change is expected to begin on May 1, 2026.
**Scope of Application**:
– The statutory minimum wage applies to all employees, regardless of whether they are paid monthly, daily, hourly, by piece, permanent, temporary, full-time, or part-time.
– Employees with disabilities are also covered and may opt for a productivity assessment to determine their wages.
**Exemptions**:
– Live-in domestic helpers.
– Interns and work experience learners as specified in the Minimum Wage Ordinance. https://www.labour.gov.hk/eng/erb/smw_esi_wes.htm
